YOU CAN PLAY NIGHT THIS SATURDAY!

BRIDGEPORT, Conn. (Feb. 20, 2013) - The Bridgeport Sound Tigers have taken the "You Can Play Pledge" as part of their support of the You Can Play Project to promote equality throughout sports. To show their support, the team has released a video which features both players and coaches expressing their support for all athletes "gay or straight".

This pledge was created by the You Can Play Project as a way for organizations to speak out against racist, sexist and homophobic remarks in their locker rooms and arenas. The team has taken the pledge as part of the Sound Tigers' You Can Play Night, which will take place this Saturday, Feb. 23 at 7:00 p.m. against the Manchester Monarchs.

"The You Can Play Project is something I fully support," Sound Tigers forward Brandon DeFazio said. "I was raised to believe that everyone is equal, regardless of race or sexual orientation. While hockey players are tough on the ice, we're also firm in our belief that our game should be free of discrimination."The Bridgeport Sound Tigers will host their “You Can Play” Night this Saturday, Feb. 23 against the Manchester Monarchs in support of the You Can Play Project.

The Sound Tigers’ You Can Play Night will be the first of its kind to be held in the American Hockey League. The You Can Play Project is dedicated to ensuring equality, respect and safety for all athletes without regard to sexual orientation.

The evening will kick off at 5:30 p.m. when fans are encouraged to arrive early to participate in a pre-game discussion and Q & A session with Patrick Burke, co-founder of the “You Can Play” Project.

Fans can also contribute to the You Can Play Project by purchasing tickets through Ticketmaster using the promo code “YOUCAN”, where $5 of every ticket purchased will go to the You Can Play Project. Click here to purchase tickets.

The Sound Tigers are also partnering with local LGBT organizations throughout the area to participate in You Can Play Night. Organizations that are interested in participating in the Sound Tigers’ You Can Play Night are encouraged to call the Sound Tigers at (203) 334-GOAL.